The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has come down hard on former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over his recent comments alleging a plot to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Fayose had claimed that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was planning to depose the Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a statement that has triggered strong reactions from stakeholders in Oyo State.
Reacting to the allegation, the CCII described the former governor’s remarks as unfounded, provocative and capable of inciting unrest in Ibadanland.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, the council said Fayose’s comments were not only misleading but also a dangerous attempt to politicise traditional institutions.
The statement quoted the CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, as expressing deep concern over what he termed reckless interference in Ibadan affairs.
Ajewole warned that Fayose’s remarks could create unnecessary tension in a city known for its respect for tradition and order.
He said Ibadanland would not tolerate external attempts to destabilise its peace through what he described as careless political rhetoric.
According to him, the allegation lacked credibility and should be disregarded by the public.
Ajewole stressed that matters relating to the Olubadan stool follow a well-established process that cannot be altered by political speculation.
He cautioned Fayose against making statements capable of misleading the public or creating distrust among residents.
“Fayose should not inflame the polity in Ibadan and Oyo State in general with reckless and unverified statements.
“We advise him to keep his mouth shut and take his divisive politics elsewhere rather than dragging Ibadan into unnecessary controversy,” the CCII President-General.
Ajewole further described Fayose’s intervention as unwarranted, insisting that the former governor had no role in the traditional or political structure of Ibadanland.
“Our own Governor Seyi Makinde is a true son of Ibadanland who would not do anything to undermine the institution of Olubadan, he is not in the same class and mould with fayose who is ready to do anything for political gains” the statement added
He maintained that dragging the revered Olubadan institution into partisan discourse was both disrespectful and unacceptable.
The CCII President-General also called on political leaders across the country to exercise caution and avoid making statements that could disrupt public peace.
Ajewole reaffirmed that Ibadan people remain committed to unity, stability and the preservation of their traditional institutions, urging all stakeholders to resist any attempt to sow discord in the ancient city.
